Risk Management and Quality Care in HealthCare Research Paper

Risk Management and Quality Care in HealthCare - Research Paper Example Considering the above factors, the techniques to enhance the quality care has also been discussed henceforth. When a patient in a healthcare organization is harmed due to a medical error, the risk and the quality managers need to display immediate interest to identify the root of the error. A detailed curriculum is followed observing the different reasons, which have led to such litigation. However, it has been observed that both the quality managers and the risk managers have a separate set of investigation techniques and hardly share any information among them causing a gap in the rick control mechanism followed by healthcare organizations in general. Considering the fact that both the groups are working with the same motive, the groups have found a common ground upon which a collaborative model can be pursued to enhance their approach (WHO, n.d.). Risk management is a very popular practice in healthcare organizations, as it helps to provide a much developed care to the patients. The quality care to the patients can be provided through continuous monitoring of medical activity that is being organized for patients. Again, it can be also said that no two organizations are alike hence no single model of risk management/quality control can suffice the need of every healthcare. Every organization follows different sets of procedures to cover up the risks that the healthcare is exposed to. However, with the focus of quality management, the policies of the organizations are more or less stable, even when new tools and procedures are incorporated (ASHRM, 2007). Notably, the quality care is presently gaining momentum at the healthcare industry and covers the all-around care for the patients. This involves the medical safety of the patients and maintaining a proper grievance cell to adhere to the grievances of the patients. Proper

Quantitative Social Research Methods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Quantitative Social Research Methods - Essay Example n that was posed to the respondents was if the current conditions in their chosen field of specialisation were favourable for their current career path. Twenty five percent of the respondents (5) felt that the conditions were not favourable while 30% (6) felt that the conditions were only moderately favourable. At 45% (9) the majority of the respondents felt that the conditions were favourable. A question on the significance of age in the respondents chosen fields of specialisation was posed. 5% (1) of the respondents responded that age was not significant in their chosen fields of specialisation. 20% (4) were of the opinion that age was only minimally significant while 30 percent (6) felt that age had moderate significance in their chosen fields of specialisation. Forty five percent (9) considered age strongly significant in their chosen fields. The significance of flexible hours in various respondents’ chosen fields of specialisation was the last question posed to the respondents. Five percent of the respondents (1) was of the opinion that they were not significant. Twenty five percent (5) were of the view that the hours were minimally significant while 35% felt that the hours were moderately significant. A similar number responded that the hour were strongly significant. It is important to note the trends in regard to the conditions at work place and the significance of age and flexible hours at the work place do not follow the normal curve but rather increase

Symbolism of the Novel Mice of Men Essay Example for Free

Symbolism of the Novel Mice of Men Essay In this short Novel Of Mice and Men, author John Steinbeck uses symbolism to demonstrate the hardships that people had to deal with during the Depression. Rabbits represent Lennie’s dreams and the impossibility of it being fulfilled. Rabbits are a fraught symbol: we know Lennie is excited about them because they’ll be furry and lovely to pet, but we also know that Lennie tends to hurt whatever he pets. Rabbits are simply Lennie’s hopes and dreams and the rabbits are revealing his every thought. When George first tells Lennie about their dream farm, it is Lennie’s trigger to tell him about the rabbits. When George thinks about the farm he thinks of freedom from working; not worrying about surviving and happiness because they wouldn’t have to worry about them starving because they would have all the things to plant and raise livestock. For Lennie, it is only about the soft things. Through evidence, the audience knows these rabbits will likely be added to Lennie’s telltale trail of small and dead animals, symbolizing Lennie’s inability to see patterns in his life and to recognize that failure is imminent. This doesn’t bode well for him and he knows it. Mice represent the false hope of a safe space for Lennie or as comfort. When Lennie was comfort he would pet something he thought that was soft, and he links them to his Aunt Carla. Mice also make it very clear that he suffers from hurting something he loves so dearly. In the title it gives a huge hint that this book has to do with mice and the first one we encounter is a dead one. And that gives us a huge indicator that Lennie doesn’t really care or worry about death, all he cares about is comfort. Remember at the ending he would be more comfortable dead by his own friend’s gentle hand than with a violet end form Curley. Also know that symbolism are not just about animals in this novel, the settings are a huge factor in symbolism too. Like the pool by the river is the place where this story began and where it also ended too. It is a safe place free from people and where Lennie and George can be their regular selves without getting judged. The dream farm is symbolic of Lennie and George’s friendship. It is the only thing that keeps them together and keeps them working for other people so that they would be free, even if times were hard they would push through it. It is, ultimately, their version of heaven, so that when Lennie kills a human being, their chances of going to heaven or their dream house is forever ruin. Steinbeck is a great writer beacues he incorporates symbolism in his books. He makes things symbolize beyond their literal meaning. Rabbits are represented as dreams, mice are the false hope that Lennie clings to and these are relatable to anyone now. These hardships during the Deprression can be carried over to now because of Steinbeck’s use of symbolism.

Purpose of Phenomenological Research

Purpose of Phenomenological Research Understanding the meaning of peoples lived experiences is the focus of phenomenology (McConnell-Henry, Chapman, Francis, 2009). Phenomenology is the philosophy or method of inquiry whereby all truths are understood through self awareness (Dictionary.com Unabridged, 2006). Ascribed from the words phenomenon and logos, an implied meaning of phenomenology is the logical interpretation of a phenomenon. Phenomena refer to any observed occurrences that are understood in our minds. Whereas logos is the human ability to think and express thoughts clearly into words (Vivilaki Johnson, 2008). In the mind, phenomena are interpreted logically through the use of logos (Vivilaki Johnson, 2008) to enhance meaning and understanding of lifes experiences (Bryne, 2001). Method Philosophical Base Phenomenology can be viewed as atheoretical in that it may not use a pre-selected theoretical framework (Mapp, 2008; Munhall, 2007). The epistemological and ontological theoretical basics of phenomenology have been established for decades by various philosophers with different methods (Mapp, 2008). Therefore, a thorough understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of phenomenology is essential when establishing the methods for a phenomenological research study. When qualitative researchers explain their methods using the phenomenologist they ascribe to, this foundation allows the unique ability of examining the world from a distinct phenomenological perspective. Thus, the philosophy and theory of the method itself guide the study when phenomenology is the theoretical framework (Munhall Chenail, 2008). From a phenomenological viewpoint, the subjective experience of each person is examined for meaning and understanding, and not quantified into statistical data. While the scientific method has centered on the discovery of knowledge with little regard for the meaning of life experiences (Bryne, 2001), phenomenological studies are rising to provide insight into life experiences, particularly those surrounding health (Vivilaki Johnson, 2008). The three schools of thought related to phenomenology include Husserlian, Heideggerian, and Dutch/Urecht. Edmond Husseri, a mathematician, philosopher, and Father of phenomenology, believed the researcher should contain their beliefs and experiences through a process called transcendental consciousness or bracketing to objectively understand and describe the essence of a participants lived experience (Hunter, 2004; Mapp, 2008). The descriptive approach used in Husserlian phenomenology to explain phenomena is further delineated by van Manen (1990) into two forms, immediate and intermediate. The first form refers to the immediate lived experience and the second form is symbolic and refers to a mediated description such as text or art works, revealing greater analysis (van Manen, 1990). In contrast to Husseri, Martin Heidegger, a pupil of Husseri, meshed hermeneutics with phenomenology possibly due to his early theological background. He believed the researcher used previous beliefs and experiences to interpret the participants experience. Heidegger contended that being-in- the-world made it virtually impossible to bracket beliefs because the researchers prior knowledge, or fore-structure, would facilitate understanding the meaning of lived experiences(Mapp, 2008; McConnell-Henry, et al., 2009). There are two features in the interpretative approach used in Husserlian phenomenology. One part points to what the lived experience reveals and the other part points out the meaning of something already interpreted such as art work or text (van Manen, 1990). Both philosophical views, descriptive and interpretative were used with the Dutch/Urecht school of thought (Mapp, 2008; McConnell-Henry, et al., 2009). The philosopher, van Manen, believed the terms descriptive and interpretative could be used interchangeably. He seemingly concurred with the argument that all description is ultimately interpretation (van Manen, 1990). Each of the three philological underpinnings for phenomenology may overlap their theoretical base and generate confusion. This is no surprise given that the meaning of the lived human experiences is diverse with an endless range of inquiries(Hunter, 2004). Key Assumptions Phenomenology is supported by a number of key assumptions (Munhall, 2007; Orb, 2000). Each person involved in the research study will be referred to as participants. Participants are willing to speak openly and truthfully about their experiences. The phenomenological question is a meaning question that is clear and easily understood by the participant. The therapeutic imperative of nursing (advocacy) takes precedence over the research imperative (advancing knowledge) if conflict develops. The ethical system of deontological (people are not to be treated as means) reflects qualitative nursing. The researcher will continually inform the participant, renegotiate, and ask permission as unexpected changes occur during the study to reflect process consenting. The researcher will make no attempts to engage in problem solving. It is possible for the researcher to discover and understand the participants perception and derive meaning of their lived experience. The researcher acknowledges any beliefs, biases, assumptions, or presuppositions that may that may hinder the veracity of the study. The researcher is an active medium for the voice of their participants without altering their life experiences. The sample is adequate and appropriate reflecting saturation and replication. The researcher will not generalize study results. Appropriate Situations for Use Phenomenology is widely used in various areas of research that deal with human experiences such as nursing, psychology, sociology and education (McConnell-Henry, et al., 2009). Several phenomenological nursing research studies were examined. In one study, Clarke (2009) used a reflective diary to provide transparency, self-development, and clarification of her thoughts and feelings as a novice researcher. Another study conducted by Koch (1994) examined the rigor involved in a study of elderly patients who were victims of negligence. A study on spiritual care for the ill patients without religious affiliation identified several implications for policy change to affect current nursing practice and the educational preparation of nurses (Creel, 2007). Research on experienced emergency nurses stressed the importance of knowledge and experience as key to intuition (Lyneham, Parkinson, Denholm, 2008). The final study cited the experience of advance beginner nurses employed in psychiatric facilities with limited educational preparation and the need for change in the ed ucational arena (Waite, 2006). Each of the studies examined were useful in communicating how participants view the world as they experience the studied phenomenon (Munhall, 2007). The results of the studies are most useful when the researcher allows the data to speak to the reader (van Manen, 1990). Most important, the phenomenology studies create hope. In addition, these studies can be used to liberate us from long held beliefs that cut-off the voice of a persons lived experience (Munhall, 2007). Sample Research Questions The questions in phenomenology research are meaning questions and unlike problem questions, they are not designed to be solved. Instead, the questions allow significance and understanding of phenomena. Phenomenological questions are never closed out with a correct answer. These questions remain open to provide new meaning and insight to those who hope to benefit from the response (van Manen, 1990). Phenomenological questions are questions of wonder that resonate in the heart of the researcher whereby the researcher lives the question and becomes the question by questioning over and over again until the question reveals the essence of its nature. In contrast, empirical research allows statistical data to answer the question for masses of people with no regard for the unique lives of participants. The question in phenomenological research focuses on the phenomenon studied and what the experience is really like for the participant. The knowledge derived from the simple question, what is it like? not only helps participants think and talk about their experiences, but it pulls the reader into the phenomenological description and instills wonder about the phenomena revealed and aids understanding of human experiences (van Manen, 1990). Formulating the research question has some similarities to empirical methods in that the research question is formulated according to the chosen philosopher and the aim of the study. For example, if Heidegger is the philosopher, then the question will focus on being in the world. As an example, the question would reflect the experience the being is in and ask: What does it mean to be a human being and have this experience (Munhall, 2007)? According to Munhall (2007), it is imperative that meaning be the primary focus of the study. Sample questions that focus, reflect meaning, and understanding of the phenomenon are as addressed (McConnell-Henry, et al., 2009; Munhall, 2007; van Manen, 1990). What is/are meaning(s) in this experience or phenomenon? What is being described here? What is it like to be a person having this experience? What is it like for those surrounding the person? How is the phenomenon reflected and manifested in human relationships? What is the evolving meaning(s) that surrounds the phenomenon over time and how does this manifest itself in human experience? What is the nature of the lived experience? What does it mean to be a . . . ? What does this . . . mean to you and what do you mean to this . . . ? What does this really mean? Data Analysis Most Common Methods Unlike empirical research, there is no method of procedures that are quickly understood and mastered when conducting phenomenological research (Munhall, 2007). Phenomenology with its emphasis on understanding the lived experience does not lend itself to specific steps in an effort to protect the veracity of the phenomenon (Groenewald, 2004). Description of methods are not designed to be linear procedural steps, but rather a way to understand the approach to phenomenological research (Munhall, 2007; vanManen, 1990). According to van Manen (1990), methods cannot be fixed, but as questions arise during the research, methods may be either discovered or invented. Munhall (2007) purposed a two-fold purpose for developing a phenomenological method of inquiry. Her first intent was to aide students and colleagues in various efforts such as novice researcher understanding, preparation for dissertation proposals, institutional review board approval, and grant applications. Secondly, she wanted qualitative research established with the same credibility and respect as the scientific method (Munhall, 2007). Munhall (2007) derived her analysis method from the work of van Manen. The main philosophical difference between Munhall and van Manen is that Munhall views phenomenological research as a problem solving agent that can effect change in policy and practice. In addition, she believes phenomenological research results can augment the capacity for caring and compassion, and enhance awareness of unknown and erroneous information (Munhall, 2007). An overview of the methods for phenomenological inquiry and data analysis described by Munhall (2007) is compared to the different phenomenological approaches. Table 1 depicts the similarities of three common methods, descriptive/interpretative (van Manen, 1990), descriptive (Waite, 2006), and interpretative hermeneutics (Crist Tanner, 2003). How Results Are Usually Presented Results are written in a narrative format and condensed into a summary of major interpretations. The narrative should reflect the most meaningful aspect of the research study that could shed light on the problem studied and potentiate social change. Participants are generally asked to read the summary to verify the meaning of their lived experiences. Understanding the lived experiences of the people in the world in which they live can have powerful implications for issues such as non-adherent behaviors (Munhall, 2007). Munhall (2007) purports that non-adherent behavior results from not understanding the patient and the meaning of a behavior to the patient. Findings from phenomenology studies should be disseminated to give voice to the lived experiences of the participants (Munhall, 2007). The thrust of phenomenology is to give birth to the ideas of others (Vivilaki Johnson, 2008). Phenomenological research studies are rooted in caring about the experiences of participants and the desire to make a difference. The question upon the completion of the study is So what? These studies command interventions for change that are viable and designed to make a difference (Munhall, 2007).

Reflection on Ethnicity Essays -- Reflection Essay

Our increased mobility has given us greater access to the world and the diverse people that inhabit it. With that mobility comes the shared responsibility to negotiate with people who may initially seem unfamiliar and learn to express the experience. The word â€Å"ethnicity† is used to describe a specific population’s characteristics of fundamental aspects that all humans share. When applied loosely, ethnicity becomes a blanket term to define large populations, undermining the worth and the diversity within that group and emphasizing the differences between cultures. Yet those differences come down to matters of preference and socialization within each culture. The dominant themes that rule human nature persist in every society – wondering where we came from and why we exist, social mores to guide how we relate to people or situations, and primal motivations such as hunger, fear, and a need to be loved and accepted. People communicate with language, have a sense of family structure, practice culinary habits, beliefs, and social values that evolved concurrent with the compounded revisions of a group’s public space and collective perception of reality. Over time, ethnic groups have interacted and negotiated public realms similar to the method each separate population underwent to develop into its present framework. We continue to co-mingle cultures, borrowing tastes that suit our own self-definition and determination. The definition of what is â€Å"right† and what is valued varies fr...

Operation Just Cause Essay -- Foreign Policy

Observing the political path of Manuel Noriega from being a paid CIA operative and ally of the American government, to military governor of Panama, to ousted dictator, to convicted American prisoner, exposes a series of political interactions that culminated in Operation Just Cause on December 20, 1989. Coming in the shadow of the fall of the Berlin Wall, and preceding Operation Desert Storm, this brief military action is often overshadowed by the other world conflicts of the time. How does a county the size of America justify invasion of the tiny Panamanian isthmus? How does a dictator such as Manuel Noriega justify declaring war on the United States. Given the great disparity between these two nations, understanding these questions can help interpret their nature. In order to answer these questions, the events leading up to the violent confrontation help establish each nations’ political position and offer insight into their own justifications to engage in military acti on. The realist and Marxist political perspective theories can be used by analyzing and different levels the justification of armed action involving these two nations. Throughout the 1970s and early 80s, Manuel Noriega was an asset to the United States as he worked closely with the Central Intelligence Agency (The Associated Press). As Noriega’s political strength increased in the early 80s, so did the tensions with the Reagan Administration. These increased tensions led to increasing encounters between Noriega’s Panama Defense Forces and American servicemen and civilians stationed in Panama (Phillips). According to the U.S. Army Center of Military History, â€Å"there were over 300 incidences of U.S. military personnel and family members' having experienced... ...including removing Noriega and his regime from power and re-establishing a democratic government, which may be justifiable from an American perspective, however the 20,000 displaced Panamanian citizens may not concur (Phillips). So justification is subjective only to one’s perspective. Works Cited Mingst, Karen A. Essentials of International Relations. New York : W.W. Norton & Co., 2008. Operation Just Cause. 06 April 2012 . Phillips, R. Cody. "Operation Just Cause: The Incursion into Panama." 1990. Rosenthal, Andrew. "The Attack: U.S. Troops Gain Wide Control in Panama." The New York Times 21 December 1989. The Associated Press. Key dates for ex-Panama dictator Manuel Noriega. 27 April 2010. 7 April 2012 .

Chivalric Code in Beowulf

The Importance of the Retainer and King in the Heroic Code Members of the Anglo-Saxon warrior society subscribed to an ethos that celebrated the heroic code. In the passage from Beowulf, the poet’s interest in the duties of a loyal retainer and the duties of a great king are evident in the specific language he uses to describe Beowulf’s encounter with the dragon. In one specific passage of this poem, Beowulf is portrayed as an ideal retainer by the loyalty, courage and fealty to the king he possesses.At the beginning of this passage, Beowulf reflects on King Hygelac and the many sacrifices and deeds he provided to Beowulf during his youth. A sorrowful mood is brought upon this specific text, as Beowulf reminisces on the death of Hygelac, â€Å"I marched ahead of him, always there/ at the front of the line; and I shall fight like that/ for as long as I live†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Beowulf 2497-2499). Beowulf acknowledges how privileged he is to have a life of luxury and obtain s uch wisdom inherited by Hygelac.If it was not for Hygelac, Beowulf would not have survived such a long, prosperous life, mentoring Hygelac’s son and soon holding the throne himself. As Beowulf prepares to fight the dragon, he easily allows the warriors to stand their place and not go any further. Demonstrating his courage, Beowulf states: This fight is not yours, nor is it up to any man except me to measure his strength against the monster or to prove his worth.I shall win the gold by my courage, or else mortal combat, doom of battle, will bear your lord away. (2532-2535) He believes that terminating the dragon is the duty only he can accomplish as well as longing for a feeling of satisfaction as he seeks the glory of winning the battle and knowing he has demolished the risk of danger his people will have to face. Based on the duration of this poem, Beowulf is accustomed to the warrior duties and later on the lifestyle of a king. These two titles have very distinct roles in A nglo-Saxon society.Beowulf, as a young warrior need not much to worry about status and having the knowledge that his people are safe and satisfied. He then gains wisdom as he witnesses Hygelac’s form of generosity towards him and his people, â€Å"The treasures that Hygelac lavished on me†¦He gave me land/ and the security land brings, so he had no call/ to go looking for some lesser champion,† (2490-2494). Beowulf demonstrates Hygelac as a loyal lord, true to his people; in return Beowulf brings himself forward as a tribute to fight the dragon.As Beowulf earns the chance to hold the throne as king later on in the poem, it is evident that the responsibilities he held were much to his advantage when the time of battle arose against the dragon. His full awareness, â€Å"‘†¦as king of the people I shall pursue this fight/ for the glory of winning, if the evil one will only/ abandon his earth-fort and face me in the open. ’† (2513-2515) Beowul f, as king and warrior only interprets as a right-doing to go into battle with the dragon, knowing his life is at risk.Towards the conclusion of this passage, Beowulf falls and has no choice but, â€Å"to give ground like that and go/ unwillingly to inhabit another home/ in a place beyond;† (2588-2590). Beowulf is true to his fellow citizens and attempts to provide to their needs even if it means losing the battle and sacrificing his life, which was the case in this poem. From this passage, it is evidently shown that Beowulf can not only hold a title of a loyal retainer with his endless amount of courage but also a grand lord, with unlimited sacrifice to his citizens. Word Count: 578